UV Index in Zacatepec, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Zacatepec, Mexico, where the warm, tropical climate poses unique risks related to UV exposure. As UV levels can reach a peak of 14 during midday, awareness of this index is vital for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. Whether you’re enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking up the sun, knowing the UV Index helps you make informed decisions about sun protection. With typical daily UV exposure being heightened, it’s important to be proactive in safeguarding your skin against harmful UV rays.

Hourly UV Index in Zacatepec

The UV Index shows a striking pattern as the day unfolds, starting from a low of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it gains intensity, peaking at 12:00 with a significant 12. The afternoon brings the highest levels, reaching a robust 14 at both 13:00 and 14:00, suggesting it's crucial to take precautions during these hours. The intensity then gradually declines, dwindling to 8 by 16:00, falling to 5 at 17:00, and returning to a mild 1 by 19:00. This data underscores the importance of sun safety in the midday hours, where exposure can be dangerous without protective measures.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	8	very high	15 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zacatepec

Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with peak levels occurring from February to October. The highest risk months are March through October, where the UV Index consistently reaches 14, classified as extreme with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade to minimize sun exposure. In contrast, January, November, and December experience lower UV levels, classified as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. However, it's still important to remain vigilant about sun safety year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zacatepec, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Zacatepec. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Zacatepec, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Zacatepec UV Index with Other Mexico Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zacatepec compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Zacatepec's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Guadalajara UVI	9	11	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
Zacatepec	10	12	14	14	14	14	14	13	13	12	10	9
Iztapalapa UVI	10	12	14	15	14	14	14	14	14	12	10	8
Ecatepec de Morelos UVI	10	12	14	15	15	14	14	13	14	12	10	8
Mexico City UVI	10	12	14	15	15	14	14	13	14	12	10	8
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9